Campus Ministry

Our Catholic tradition teaches us that good works are integral to strong faith. That’s why Christian service is so important for student formation at Garces. Rather than simply earning hours, Garces integrates service within theological reflection. This deepens the experience of service by connecting the work of the hands with faith the heart.

Freshmen are required to perform 10 hours of service at family and home and sophomores perform their 10 required hours for a school or parish. Juniors complete their 20 service hours within the context of the Sacraments course as part of the call to sacramental living. Service during junior year focuses on assisting those who are often marginalized – the poor, elderly, and those suffering from disabilities. It is highly relational in nature and, as such, provides fertile ground for faith-centered reflection that goes directly to what it means to be the kind of human God is calling each of us to be. In addition to the 40 service hours earned during freshman, sophomore and junior years, seniors serve in a variety of leadership capacities through clubs, athletics, retreats, CSF, NMS, FFA and other organizations. A primary goal of a Garces education is leadership formation and much of senior year is devoted to learning how to become servant leaders.

Retreats are an essential part of developing students to be reflective, thoughtful believers. Taking time from the routine of the day and from the busyness of life helps students to gain perspective and to evaluate priorities.